Clinton hails UAE leadership and people

Abu Dhabi: US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton hailed the UAE leadership and people on the 38th National Day anniversary.

"The UAE has been a promoter of peace and progress not just nationally, but regionally and internationally, thanks to the foresight of its founder, Shaikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan, and to the wise leadership of President His Highness Shaikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, His Highness Shaikh Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, and the Their Highnesses Members of the Supreme Council," she said.

"On behalf of the people of the United States, I congratulate the Emirati people as they celebrate the United Arab Emirates' 38th National Day and the founding of the Federation.

"Our friendship exemplifies the relations founded on mutual interests and mutual respect that US President Barack Obama described in his speech in Cairo. Our strategic partnership and the UAE's leadership on important regional issues contribute to regional and international stability. Our strong and growing relationships, in such varied fields as business, finance and trade; medicine, science and technology; humanitarian work; media; and education and culture, demonstrate the enormous success possible when friends reach out with open hands of partnership and respect.

"I wish to reaffirm the commitment of the United States to sustain and increase our partnership with the UAE, and offer the Emirati people our warmest congratulations on this National Day."